Tyra Banks plans her own amusement park to “bring modelling to the masses”

Supermodel, author, actress and ‘America’s Next Top Model’ host Tyra Banks is planning to launch her own amusement park in Los Angeles.

Tara Banks has plans to launch her own amusement park. Image by James Devaney/GC Images via Getty

The model-turned-entrepreneur announced on Wednesday that she will open Modelland, 21,000-square-foot, multilevel theme park at the Santa Monica Place shopping mall in California, to “bring modelling to the masses and expand the definition of beauty.” While we’re not entirely sure what that means, details from a press release suggest that the amusement park will be a mix of retail and entertainment spaces.

Inspired by attractions like Disneyland and Universal Studios, Banks said Modelland will be a multi-level amusement park which hosts fantasy-driven experiences for visitors. At the permanent attraction, which is preparing to open its doors sometime in late 2019, guests can wear custom-created pieces designed by Hollywood costume designers and choose from entertainment options such as high-end dining, retail and an “elevated social media component” that will celebrate all types of beauty.

Tyra Banks (pictured with Tanika Ray) said she was inspired by Universal Studios and Disney. Image by Noel Vasquez/Getty Images

“I created [the TV show “America’s Next Top Model”] to expand the definition of beauty based on my own pain of being told ‘no’ that I couldn’t do something because I’m curvy or I’m black,” Banks told Women’s Wear Daily. “My empathy for women in general increased through the experience. And now with Modelland, I’m taking it ten steps forward, giving people the opportunity to engage with the elusive world by opening it up to everyone.”